Greene Comprehensive
Family Dentistry
Dentures are used to replace all or just some teeth. When dentures are used to replace all your teeth, we call them “complete dentures”. Complete dentures rest on the gums over your jawbones. Dentures can be attached to dental implants that are anchored in your jaw. A “partial denture” replaces only some teeth and is usually attached to existing teeth by a crown or a dental implant.
By correctly caring for your dentures, you can extend their life and improve your experience wearing them. Follow these tips to keep your dentures clean, useful for longer and to help them fit better:
Clean dentures every day. Brush your dentures on a daily basis in the same way you would your teeth, but don't use toothpaste or a regular toothbrush. Use a soft-bristle denture brush designed specifically for cleaning dentures instead. While scrubbing all surfaces of the dentures, be careful not to bend the denture attachments, and rinse the dentures well. Rinse your dentures after each meal also. Specialized denture cleaners can be used to soak your dentures, but you will still need to brush your dentures every day to remove plaque.
Handle dentures carefully. Handle your dentures with care when removing them so that you don’t damage them. Place a folded towel in the sink or fill the sink with water before you remove or handle your dentures to prevent your dentures from breaking if you drop them into an empty sink. Soak your dentures in cool water or denture cleaning solution when you aren’t wearing them. Don’t use very hot water when cleaning or soaking your dentures as it may warp or damage them. If your dentures include metal attachments, avoid using any denture cleaning solution that could cause the metal to tarnish.
Remove your dentures (full or partial) every night. This allows your gums to rest and prevents damage to the dentures and your mouth.
How to Remove Your Dentures
- Swish some warm water or mouthwash in your mouth.
- Put a towel in the sink or fill the sink with warm water to keep your dentures from breaking if you drop them.
- Place your thumb against your front teeth and push upward and slightly outward toward your nose to remove the top denture.
- Pull slowly on the lower denture and use a rocking motion to remove it.
If you take care of your dentures, they can last for 5-7 years. Visit your dentist every six months to ensure appropriate fit and to maintain the condition of your dentures. Your dentist will also check for irritation or gum disease so that it can be treated immediately before it affects your ability to wear the dentures.
How to Clean Your Dentures
Plaque can build up on dentures in the same way it occurs on natural teeth. Removing and cleaning your dentures every day will keep them shiny and white and prevent them from becoming dirty or dull. You can also eliminate unpleasant odor by cleaning daily with a denture brush and soaking them in a specialized denture cleanser.
- Fill your sink with water to avoid damaging your dentures if you drop them.
- Start by rinsing your dentures with warm water to remove loose food particles.
- Use a cleanser specifically designed for dentures. Dentures can be damaged by toothpaste, bleach, vinegar, or soap. Dentures that are scratched or damaged might harbour plaque bacteria and develop odors. Whiteners and harsh cleaners like bleach can damage dentures, and will cause the pink part of your dentures to turn white.
- Use a moistened denture brush (NOT a toothbrush) to clean all surfaces of your dentures. Brush gently – if you brush too hard, you can damage plastic and metal parts. Use clean, warm water (NEVER hot or boiling water) to clean your dentures.
- Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your gums and natural teeth before you reinsert your dentures to maintain good oral health and stimulate circulation in the mouth.
- Rinse with mouthwash after you brush to help reduce bacteria in your mouth and maintain fresh breath.
